New FDA Labeling Requirements Are Now In Effect
On May 20, 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) finalized significant changes to food, beverage, and supplement labeling, including updates to daily values, serving sizes, the Nutrition Facts chart, and more. Manufacturers have 2 years to comply, however, manufacturers with less than $10 million in annual food sales have an additional year to comply.
What changes have been made?
The changes affect the label content, format and appearance. Adjustments are made to Serving Size reflecting modern typical consumption patterns. Revised Daily Values for certain nutrients that are either mandatory or voluntary. Examples include calcium, sodium, dietary fiber, potassium and vitamin D. Calories from Fat are eliminated, while more attention is placed on total Calories. See below illustration indicating label changes compared to previous label.
When will these changes go into effect?
The new rules became effective on July 26, 2016. Manufacturers will need to use the new label by July 26, 2018. However, manufacturers with less than $10 million in annual food sales will have an additional year to comply.
What should I do now?
Learn how your products have been affected by the changes and determine a timeline for updating your product labeling based on the FDA compliance deadline. Forecast bulk printing for labels to ensure good use of current label stock, while waiting for large print runs until after the updated label artwork can be implemented on existing package artwork. Work towards incrementally changing existing recipe nutritional values and creating your newly designed Nutrition Facts labels.
Where can I get more information?
The FDA’s website is the best place to get up-to-date specific information regarding the proposed changes, as well as detailed information regarding how the changes may affect your product labeling.
